We are trying to get a more bit organized about getting information out to our friends and family, so here is the first email update on Ann.
As most of you know, Ann was recently diagnosed with angiosarcoma. This is a rare cancer of the blood vessels, with about 60 new cases reported per year in the US. Her specific type originated in the spleen. There are only about 150 cases of this type of angiosarcoma reported in the medical journals. The good news is that her spleen was successfully removed a few weeks ago. The bad news is that the cancer had spread to her liver. The weight of that diagnosis has been overwhelming.
Ann and I will be heading to Houston on Thursday to visit the sarcoma unit at M.D. Anderson hospital. Our first appointment is Friday afternoon and we may be there for 3-5 business days. My mom will be down to stay with the kids and keep the house in order while we are gone. The purpose of the trip is to learn what treatment options are available and then make a decision.
We would appreciate your prayers. We have seen God graciously act in numerous ways thus far and we are confident that he will continue to be with us. Here are some specifics:
- Pray for our emotional strength as we are again confronted with the reality of our situation.
- Pray for wisdom as we consider treatment options, including possible clinical studies.
- Pray that God would heal Ann in his way and time, so that she can live to know our grandchildren (specifically Matt's, who is 10).
I have always heard people say that they appreciated people's prayer as they went difficult storms. It is not a cliché.
We love you and appreciate your heart-felt prayers. We know that God loves us because of family and friends who demonstrate his care.
Ps. 33:16-18
No king is saved by the size of his army;
No warrior escapes by his great strength...
But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him,
On those who hope in his unfailing love,
To deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.
Thanks,
Howard and Ann
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